The tiles we see today originate from all over the world. In the UK we see a range of glass floor tiles that come from China and Mexico as well as Italy. Each offer different styles and attributes to please a wide range of customers. Some have clean lines and look sophisticated while others have more of a handmade artesian quality. The design variations are unlimited.

Glass tiles are available in clear, glass with white backing, non- transparent glass (Venetian), harsh glass and also a whole host of numerous styles, shapes and sizes. Some are straight and even in sizing/shapes, while others have a much more random look to them.

Consider exactly what you prefer to see that pleases the eye. If you like refraction style light to bounce off the floor chooses tilesthat are either all clear or clear with a white backing.

Simply want the smoothness of glass however, not the transparency? Choose Venetian glass.

Whichever style, dimension or colour you pick, it should reflect your personal style as well as the setting. If you like strong colours, purple may be a wonderful alternative. If you favour a more monochromatic look, matching the ceramic tile to the bordering decking colours would certainly suit you better.

The majority of typical sizes we view installed in swimming pools are 1″x1″ and 3/4″x 3/4″. Nonetheless, you could use 1″x2″, 3/8″x3/8″ and other dimensions. When considering glass ceramic tiles remember a couple of realities. If you can see-through the ceramic tile you will be able to see the inset bed too. So the white or grey inset will show through as well as change the colour of your ceramic tile accordingly, regardless of grout colour. If you have a see through ceramic tile attempt to keep the grout the exact same shade as the setup materials for consistency of look.

The costs of tiles vary enormously so find a ceramic or glass tilethat fits the budget and don’t forget the extra expenses.

Glass tile costs depend on various factors: Where tile is produced, just how long the transportation takes, and the tile quality. E.G: You can obtain glass tile with real gold specks!

You will need to know how many rooms you are tiling in square feet or square meters before you begin shopping. By doing this when you compare prices you can do a quick computation to see if it is within your budget. If you find a tile you are absolutely crazy about but is outside the budget think about utilising it as an accent just to help costs.

Glass floor tiles are tougher to set up than normal ceramic or porcelain ceramic tile so your labour expense will higher. This is due to the fact that glass floor tiles needs to be sized by hand and in specific shapes to suit locations where a full ceramic tile cannot be used. E.G:In the rounded corner of a pool where the floor meets the wall.

An additional factor to consider is an anti-fracture membrane. This membrane is applied quickly over the mortar bed and gives a little flex for the floor tile. In frost/freeze environments this is a must on ceramic tile bands and specifically any type of tiled locations which are above ground. While these preventive actions add to the initial financial investment it’s an investment for the longer term. Many glass ceramic tile makersinsist that you utilise this product under their product.

It’s a good idea to have a sample sheet for your ceramic tile setter to view when they evaluate your job. This way there are no unexpected surprises..

Not all ceramic tile setters are skilled in glass tile and also not all know just what foundation materials to make use of. Glass is smooth, therefore creating a strong bond for an underwater application is essential. Using the right setting products is important. Ask your ceramic tile setter if they have had experience in using glass tiles in your type of location. Some ceramic tile producer’s, such as Bisazza, offer training certification programs in glass ceramic tile setup.

Most ceramic tiles are available in sheets, usually a 12″ x 12″ square, held together on a mesh backing or a paper/plastic facing. For underwater applications a paper/plastic facing is suitable. With many mesh supports occasionally the adhesive used to stick the mesh to the ceramic tile is not as strong as that used in the production process. This limits the bond of the setting products to the ceramic tile. While mesh is the preferred backing available as well as frequently the more budget-friendly choice, take care to determine whether it agrees with standards for underwater applications. Some ceramic tile distributors/manufacturers have glass ceramic tile on mesh which is assured for pool installation.

When considering where in your swimming pool, whirlpool or waterscape you will want glass tile, think of the functional side.. Glass is extremely slippery so for some places actions it may not be the most effective option. Adding a couple of rows of a non-slip ceramic tile for security can assist. If you are installing glass tile in a whirlpool you will not want a ceramic tile that has sharp edges; resting or leaning your back on these kinds of floor tiles could cut you as grout decays over time. These environments are a lot better matched to a ceramic tile band where people rubbing up against it are not a problem.